The Romantic Braid of Your Dreams Is Finally HERE

The most romantic braid ever has hit the interwebs, and we’ve got your backstage pass on how to get it! With easy-breezy baby steps, you can create a next-level mermaid-style braid right now. So whether you’re planning the wedding of your dreams or an epic anniversary date night, this never-ending braid will ensure a night full of double takes and compliments from admirers near and far.

STEP 1:  BRAID THE SIDES

Braid two French braids on each side of your head using the 3D braiding technique (AKA braiding from underneath). This will guarantee that your plaits will really POP. We so can’t get enough of this braiding method to ensure thick braids all day, err’y day.

STEP 2: BRAID THE BACK

Next, braid the back of your hair using the same reverse 3D French braiding technique. For an extra dose of pretty, flip the ends upwards and hold them in place with a clear elastic band. This little touch brings an added detail to your braid, creating a bit of romance in a go-to style.

STEP 3: PANCAKE THAT BRAID

Spray texturizing hairspray, like Not Your Mother’s Dry Finish Texture Spray ($10), to give your braid additional fullness, texture and hold. Who doesn’t love a one-and-done product? Gently pull out sections of your braid to create a flatter, wider style — that’s why it’s called pancaking (get it?!).

STEP 4: TUCK IN THE SIDE BRAIDS

Using hair pins, join your side braids with the back braid to complete your look and create a full-on fashion moment. We love that this style is beautiful from all angles — seriously, doesn’t this stunning braid make your heart go pitter patter?

Whatever the occasion, let the romance unfold with a woven look that brings all the drama, in all the right ways. Slay girl, slay!

Follow us on Pinterest for more hair inspiration.

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Great hair days are hard to come by — then, add in a dripping sky and “can’t breathe” humidity and most of us just throw up our hands and flaunt our frizz for the day. That's why these rainy day hairstyles are exactly what we need this fall: when your hair is doing everything *except* what you want it to do, you'll want to have these easy hairstyles in your back pocket. From accessories to braids to updos, these 18 totally awesome hair tutorials are the key to having luscious locks no matter the forecast. This has been a report from your local hair-saver station.

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Two Braids

This is a great look if you want your hair pulled back from your face but also want some of it left down.

Rope Braids

Get a cute style on days when you're not really feeling it with these rope braids. They add just the right amount of detail without having to go all in on a difficult look. (via Brit + Co)

Image used with permission courtesy of @lovefings

Bubble Braids

Pull back the front sections of your hair, or all of it, into a sassy update on this classic hairstyle from our childhoods. (via Brit + Co)

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Deconstructed Ponytail

Ponytails and buns are pretty much every girl’s go-to on a rainy day, but that gets old fast. Amp up your average pony with this chic deconstructed style. (via Wit + Delight)

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JULIE SARIÑANA on Instagram: "happy vibes always. 🌈🙃"

Head Scarf

We love this fab updo for two reasons: 1) It’s super easy to do yourself. 2) It’s got boho-glam written all over it.

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Baseball Cap

This is one easy, cute, and super casual way to keep your hair under control for rainy days and 3rd hair days alike.

Mad Men Updo

Peggy will have nothing on you when you step out in this retro-inspired updo. (via Brit + Co)

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Bun

If your hair always falls out of claw clips, try making a bun and securing the ends with a clip instead.

Crazy Waves

In a hurry? No problem — simply throw some dry shampoo in your hair and head out. You can add a few curls or a cute hat if you have time. (via Brit + Co)

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Headband Hair Pile

Got a head full of crazy curls that go even more cray when it’s wet outside? Allow us to introduce you to the perfect hairstyle for taming your locks when the humidity is sky high. (via Refinery29)

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Boho Crown Braid

If you haven’t noticed yet, braids are pretty much your hair’s white knight — there to save you when the big, black clouds attack.

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Barrettes

Keep framing pieces and flyaways under control with some barrettes and hair spray. Very Y2K and very cute!

Easy Wonder Woman-Inspired Knotted Braid

Give any outfit a bit of edge with this fun and surprisingly easy braid. This look is exactly what it sounds like: knots all the way down your hair! (via A Beautiful Mess)

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From Curly to Sleek Top Knot/Bun

Sleek Top Knot

Rain or shine, you can never go wrong with a super sleek top knot.

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Messy French Twist

French twists are no easy feat, especially when you’re in the midst of your morning rush. But, if you’re okay with rocking the messy version, this is an excellent hairstyle to pull out on dreaded rainy days. (via Once Wed)

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Ziger Naturals on Instagram: "Crown braid & bun 👑😍 @_ammamama_ . . . . . . . . . #naturallyshesdope #naturalhair #crownbraid #teamnatural #blackgirlmagic #naturalhaircommunity #protectivestyles #naturalhairdaily #naturalhairstyles #crownbraids #myhaircrush #naturalhairjourney #kinksandcoils #naturalhairrocks #melanin #blackgirlskillingit #amazingnaturalhair #healthyhairjourney #naturalhairdoescare #respectmyhair #melaninonfleek #melaninmagic #naturalista #blackgirlsrock #kinkychicks #melaninpoppin #voiceofhair #melaninqueen #naturalhairgrowth"

Goddess Braids

Add some gold cord or fun ribbons into your braids for an added accessory to your updo.

Half-Up High Pony

This style will keep your hair out of your face while still looking romantic. (via Brit + Co)

Romantic Twist Updo

With this romantic-inspired updo you can control your mane and look good while doing it. Talk about an awesome way to start off a less-than-cheerful rain-filled morning. (viaBrit + Co)

Which rainy day hairstyle will you pull off the next time it pours? Let us know your favorites in the comments and on Twitter, and be sure to check out our Fall Hair Trends for 2022.

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Fans of Fourth Wing are on pins and needles because Rebecca Yarros just announced she's finished writing the third book in the Empyrean series! It's us, we're fans — along with over half of BookTok.

We can't believe we're getting closer to reading more about Violet Sorrengail's journey, but we know you have a ton of burning questions about the release date for Book No. 3.

We may not have all the answers, but we've done a little digging to share as much as we can because who doesn't want to know what Rebecca Yarros has been up to?

I'm new to the Empyrean series. Are "Fourth Wing" and "Iron Flame" really worth reading?

Amazon

I'm not going to lie to you. The editorial team, including myself, are extremely biased about Fourth Wingand Iron Flame. From my perspective, I think these are great books for anyone who had the pleasure of growing up during the great Harry Potter era and moved on to watchingGame of Thrones and House of Dragons.

Did she announce the name of book no. 3?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

YES! Book No. 3 is titled Oynx Storm.

Knowing what we do about the manifestation of Violet's powers, I think this could hint she's going to play an even larger role in the series. According to a fan theory shared on TikTok(via Empyrean Riders), it's believed that Violet and Xaden Riorson are actually gods. Stay with me here.

Empyrean Riders noted that Violet's last name means heavenly and that she's able to control time thanks to her connection to the young dragon Andarna (I love her so much!). That sounds pretty god-like to me.

And when asked which two Taylor Swift songs describe Onyx Storm, Rebecca Yarros chose "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" from The Tortured Poets Department and "So It Goes..." from Reputation. "Who's Afraid of Little Old Me?" is one of Taylor's most powerful songs and definitely translates the idea that Violet's powers are going to be stronger than ever, while "So It Goes..." is equal parts suspense and seduction, and is TOTALLY about "all the pieces fall right into place" to get together with the right person.

There's so much more to unpack so I suggest grabbing a yummy snack while you fall down the rabbit hole. All I'm sure of is that Onyx Storm is going to leave our emotions in shambles just like Fourth Wing and Iron Flame did.

When did Rebecca Yarros announce she's done writing book no. 3 in the series?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

On June 17, Rebecca Yarros shared this image of her laptop to indicate she'd finished the third book in the Empyrean series.

She wrote, "(Pic from one of the very many locations in which this book was written)," towards the end of the caption before adding a few relevant hashtags to it.

When will Onxy Storm be available for purchase?

Rebecca Yarros/Instagram

Rebecca Yarros exclusively told Good Morning America that fans can expect the book to hit shelves January 21, 2025! That gives us a little over six months to prepare our emotions for what's sure to be a storm of a book.

She said, "There will be politics, new adventures, old enemies and of course, dragons." There's no way she could forget the dragons because I'd willingly riot over them. They deserve to have their stories told forever.

As luck would have it, Cosmopolitan received an exciting first look at what's to come in Onyx Storm. The excerpt begins with Violet realizing the Venin have found their way into Basgiath War College and are wreaking havoc. Alongside Rhiannon, Sawyer, and Ridoc, she races to stop the Venin from releasing Jack Barlowe from his prison cell.

However, Violet's shocked when she discovered one of the "dark wielders" has a long silver braid that closely resembles her own. Before she can fully react, the woman disappears. According to Screen Rant, there are possible theories about why Violet saw her and what this means for her growing power.

Towards the end of the excerpt, Violet discovers the Venin want to capture her too. Also, Xaden makes his long-awaited appearance and it's clear their playful banter in the face of danger hasn't changed. That he hasn't fully changed into the Venin Violet's used to seeing.

I officially can't wait to read the rest of the book in January!

Has Rebecca Yarros revealed the cover for Onyx Storm?

Today/Bree Archer, Elizabeth Turner Stokes for Entangled Publishing

Onyx Storm

Yes!

TODAY received an exclusive look at the cover for Onyx Storm and it doesn't disappoint! Unlike its predecessors, it appears Rebecca Yarros is hinting that darker events will take place.

Fans of the Empyrean series aren't the only ones who are excited to see what fate has in store for our favorite characters though. In a statement to TODAY, Rebecca revealed how elated she is to be working on the series again. "It's amazing to be back with these characters again. She also said, ""I can't wait for readers to see what Violet, Xaden, and the rest of the quadrant have in store for them in Onyx Storm!"

Are you excited for the release of Onyx Storm? Follow us on Facebook for more entertainment news!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

If you’ve ever found yourself running late (guilty), you’ve likely thrown your hair into a messy bun or half-up hairstyle in hopes of getting out the door ASAP. While your inspiration may have been your favorite Instagram beauty blogger, if you have fine strands, lifeless locks, or simply aren’t a hair pro, you may be at a loss as to where to begin. Instead of feeling frazzled, heed the advice of Amber Fillerup Clark, AKA Barefoot Blonde, on how to bring her Insta-worthy #HairGoals to life. Ahead you’ll find five easy-to-follow tutorials that will put the finishing touches on any outfit of the day. Best of all, despite looking voluminous, expertly coiffed, and perfectly imperfect, each insanely quick style will take you no more than five minutes, a few bobby pins and, depending on your hair type, clip-in extensions to create.

Two-Twist Updo

You’ll need:

  • extensions
  • hair elastics
  • bobby pins

Instructions:

1. If you have thick hair, you can skip this step. If you have fine hair, however, consider the BFB Up ($115). Designed to create full-bodied updos, these clip-in extensions make any ponytail, bun, or twist look bigger and better. If you use them, clip them in line with the tops of your ears under the outermost layer of hair.

2. Starting at the front of your hair, twist two sections of hair to their ends before twisting them together in a loose rope braid. To do so, twist toward your head and add in sections of hair as you work your way down.

3. Stop once you have twisted half of your hair and secure with elastic.

4. Twist the other half of your hair and secure with elastic.

5. Pin the two twists up. There’s no wrong way to do this; just have fun pinning hair in all directions.

Modern French Twist

You’ll need:

  • extensions
  • bobby pins

Instructions:

1. If you have thick hair, you can skip this step. If not, insert your clip-in extensions in the middle of the back of your head, in line with the top of your ear.

2. Gather all of your hair to the back like you’re going to make a low ponytail.

3. With your pointer finger, twist hair at the nape of the neck.

4. Twist two or three times while moving your hand up to create the twist.

5. Secure with bobby pins.

6. Leave the tail of your hair out for a fun touch, or tuck it under and pin.

7. Pull some pieces of hair out around your face.

Scarf Bun

You’ll need:

  • extensions
  • hair elastic
  • scarf
  • bobby pins

Instructions:

1. If you have thick hair, you can skip this step. If not, insert clip-in extensions in the middle of the back of your head, in line with the top of your ear.

2. Make a low ponytail at the back of your head.

3. Tie a scarf around the ponytail.

4. Take one side of the scarf and join it with the ponytail.

5. Twist the ponytail into a bun.

6. Bobby pin to secure the bun.

7. Tie a knot with the scarf ends or leave them longer. Up to you!

Snake Braid

You’ll need:

  • hair elastic
  • bobby pins

Instructions:

1. Take a small section of hair and do a three-strand braid on one side of your head.

2. With two fingers, hold the middle strand.

3. With your other hand, lightly pinch and push the braid toward the head.

4. Secure with an elastic and pin it in place.

Twisted Half Up

You’ll need:

  • extensions
  • hair elastics

Instructions:

1. Twist two sections of hair from each side and secure them in the back with an elastic.

2. Repeat again with two more small sections from the front.

3. Take the hair from the twists and add in two more small sections of hair to create bulk.

4. Fishtail or braid the gathered hair down to the bottom.

5. Pull apart the braid to make it look more voluminous.

6. Secure with an elastic.

Do you love extensions? Tell us @BritandCo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Kate Winslet is THE Hollywood actress to me. Not only has she starred in box office smashes like Titanic and Avatar: Way of Water, but she's proven her acting chops in breakout indie flicks and provided mothers and daughters everywhere with eternal Christmas movie nights thanks to The Holiday. But the actress' consistently viral kindness, her dedication to embracing her natural beauty, and her sophistication don't mean she always feels confident. Kate Winslet just spilled on the one movie from her career that had her "sh—ing" herself, and I just had to dive in.

Here's what Kate Winslet had to say about her scariest movie experience ever.

  • Kate Winslet made a name for herself with Titanic, Sense & Sensibility, and The Holiday.
  • However those movies aren't the film she wants fans to ask about!
  • The actress spills on the movies she's proud of, and the one job that had her "sh—ing myself."

Talking to Vanity Fair for her newest film Lee, Kate Winslet revealed one project she wishes fans asked about more is Iris. The 2001 film stars Kate as a young Iris Murdoch against Judi Dench's older counterpart. And for Kate, nothing was more terrifying than working with such a wonderful actress.

"People don’t really ask me about Iris. It’s such a delicate film," she says. "It was the first thing I had done after having my daughter. Going to work with a baby, I’m playing Iris Murdoch, looking to Judi Dench’s older Iris Murdoch — I was sh—ting myself."

Considering how nervous I get when I meet my heroes, I can only imagine what it was like to meet Dame Judi Dench. Talk about a dream! Another film Kate loves is Revolutionary Road, and not just because she got to reunite with Leonardo DiCaprio.

"The thing that people say is, 'You got to work with Leo again.' Then they go off on the whole Leo tangent, which I totally understand," she says of the film, which follows an ambitious couple who find themselves trapped in the reality of 1950s suburbia. "But Revolutionary Road — f—king hell, it just knocked us all sideways. Unbelievably difficult material. I was very proud of that film and what Leo and I were able to create as Frank and April. It was so brutal."

The process for getting Lee into the world sounds equally brutal, considering Kate started working on it over a decade ago. As producer, Kate tells Vanity Fair she doesn't mind the fact she's done more for the film than if she only had an acting credit. "That has felt very necessary for this film. But it’s also just really important to me," she says. "It’s important to me that people know that it’s out there and might feel compelled to go and see it."

Because it turns out, commercial success or stardom on its own doesn't actually help your movie get made! "It doesn’t matter who you are," she says. "No one’s going to go, 'Oh, I’ll just back that pony because she was in Titanic.' It doesn’t happen that way, and I never expected that. That’s really important to say."

"I've gotten older and I’ve learned more and felt more confident in myself about whether or not I could actually do it," she adds. "It’s not something I would’ve done had I not felt so passionately about the subject, and Lee was just—she wouldn’t let me go."

Let us know your favorite Kate Winslet movies in the comments, and since we've officially entered cozy season, check out Why The Holiday Movie Ending Is The Most Important Scene while you're at it!

Marvel movies are known for their heroes and their hopeful outlook on the world. But in 2025, we're getting a brand new team: the Thunderbolts. This team is made up of antiheroes and former villains, and it's sure to be the wackiest and strangest, as well as one of the most memorable, superhero movies we've seen in recent years.

Keep reading for the latest news on Thunderbolts* before it hits theaters in 2025.

Marvel Studios/YouTube

Thunderbolts* comes out this May, and the cast just showed off some brand new footage at the D23 convention — and thanks to the new 'Celebrating 85 Years' spot, we have the first look too!

We get a look at Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, John Walker, and Ghost. Plus, Yelena Belova, of course. This heartbreaking detail about Yelena's new look connects Florence Pugh's Yelena to Scarlett Johansson's Natashaand I'm WEEPING.

Marvel Studios/Walt Disney Studios

And at D23 Brazil, we got a brand new look at my new favorite team. "There’s something in this film, in terms of superpowers and superheroes, that shows that our superpowers lie in how ‘broken’ we are," David Harbour said at the event. "As if our superpowers came from our relationships.”

What is the plot of Thunderbolts?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Plot

Consider Thunderbolts* to be The Avengers' edgy younger sibling. The movie follows Yelena Belova (who we know off the bat is a "depressed assassin" thanks to a Marvel Studios press release). She's joined by Bucky Barnes, The Red Guardian, and John Walker. Based on a leak, it looks like we'll see this group of misfits team up against Valentina Allegra de Fontaine after she sends them on a deadly mission.

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Jesse Grant/Disney

Thunderbolts* Release Date

Thunderbolts* hits theaters May 2, 2025.

Who's on the Thunderbolts team?

Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

Thunderbolts* Cast

Thunderbolts* stars Florence Pugh, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lewis Pullman, Hannah John-Kamen, Wyatt Russell, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Sebastian Stan, and David Harbour.

This is a huge cast, and Viswanathan just revealed how crazy the first day of filming was. “My first day didn’t feel real," she tells Vanity Fair. "I felt this extra pressure of, ‘Know your lines, babe. You can’t really play around like you usually do.’"

Historically, sci-fi fans haven't been kind to actresses in their favorite projects (remember when Star Wars fans bullied Kelly Marie Tran off social media?). But Viswanathan is already thinking ahead. “If it’s overwhelming, I’ll log off. But I like discourse around pop culture,” she says. “[Thunderbolts*] felt a little bit edgier and fresher, more existential and dark.”

Jesse Grant/Disney

The rest of the cast also enjoyed working together. “Everyone is going to f—kin’ love me! It’s really, really, really fun to be with a group of actors that you have a good time with," Wyatt Russell says at Comic Con (via Variety), while David Harbour adds, “Florence Pugh [is] just electric to work with. There’s warmth and humor, but there’s also a lot of pathos.”

“This is why we can't stop laughing together, because we genuinely just had such a wonderful time with each other and we've loved working with one another," Pugh tells People. “I feel like this is something that we've never seen before from Marvel...it's a very open and honest and truthful idea. And I'm just really excited for people to watch it.”

Are you excited for this brand new chapter in the MCU? I really feel like Thunderbolts* will usher in a whole new generation of fans and I, for one, CANNOT WAIT! Let us know your thoughts on Facebook.

Lead images via Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images for Disney

This post has been updated.